Multiscale Analysis of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Tissue: Insights into Biodistribution and Biotransformation

Abstract

Metal oxide nanoparticles have emerged as exceptionally potent biomedical sensors and actuators due to their unique physicochemical features. Despite fascinating achievements, the current limited understanding of the molecular interplay between nanoparticles and the surrounding tissue remains a major obstacle in the rationalized development of nanomedicines, which is reflected in their poor clinical approval rate. This work reports on the nanoscopic characterization of inorganic nanoparticles in tissue by the example of complex metal oxide nanoparticle hybrids consisting of crystalline cerium oxide and the biodegradable ceramic bioglass. A validated analytical method based on semiquantitative X‐ray fluorescence and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry is used to assess nanoparticle biodistribution following intravenous and topical application. Then, a correlative multiscale analytical cascade based on a combination of microscopy and spectroscopy techniques shows that the topically applied hybrid nanoparticles remain at the initial site and are preferentially taken up into macrophages, form apatite on their surface, and lead to increased accumulation of lipids in their surroundings. Taken together, this work displays how modern analytical techniques can be harnessed to gain unprecedented insights into the biodistribution and biotransformation of complex inorganic nanoparticles. Such nanoscopic characterization is imperative for the rationalized engineering of safe and efficacious nanoparticle‐based systems.

Inorganic nanohybrids combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria hiding within human macrophages

“…S8 †) have shown a pronounced accumulation of nanoparticles in tissue macrophages, which indicates the feasibility of the approach. 65 Also, long-term co-culture studies would be of high interest, however, cell viability of infected cells is limited in currently available models. 28 While the stability of nanoceria is welcomed for sustainable treatments, a degradable particle might reduce long-term toxicity concernssuch a nanoparticle system can be engineered by harnessing the freedom of LF-FSP.…”

“…Similarly to described elsewhere, 65,67 measurements were performed on a WITec alpha 300R confocal Raman microscope, equipped with a UHTS 300 Vis spectrometer and an Andor Newton EMCCD. A linearly polarized 532 nm laser was used for excitation.…”

Chemically Stable, Strongly Adhesive Sealant Patch for Intestinal Anastomotic Leakage Prevention

“…Raman measurements were performed as previously described. [ 53,61 ] More specifically, measurements were performed on deparaffinized histological sections. The measurements, were performed on a WITec alpha 300R confocal Raman microscope, equipped with a UHTS 300 Vis spectrometer and an Andor Newton EMCCD.…”

From Micromagnetic to In Silico Modeling of Magnetic Nanodisks for Hyperthermia Applications

“…Inter‐endothelial routes comprise pores or open fenestrations in the tumor blood vessels, while trans‐endothelial pathways are based on transcytosis by tumor endothelial cells. [ 49–51 ] As corroborated by micro‐CT imaging, high‐resolution optical imaging and numerical modeling, the spatial‐temporal distribution of nanomaterials in the target tissue is not uniform, with the formation of high‐density agglomerates imposed by the host biological matrices, [ 52–56 ] as simplified in the schematic of Figure a. This effect can be amplified in the presence of magnets with collecting action [ 57 ] and, in the case of magnetic hyperthermia, it can lead to a heat deposition variable in space and in time and, consequently, to a heterogeneous temperature increase.…”